Support the Bell of Hope Cycling race

The annual Bell of Hope Cycle challenge for mental wellness will take place on 19 May at the Cradle of Humankind.

“In the past six years we have been very well supported by the public and this event is now becoming a favourite on the cycle calendar,” said Ashley Nunan, fundraiser at Ebenezer Psychiatric Home.

She added that the cycle challenge is a charity event that aims to raise money for the home. “We are a licensed Non-profit Organisation that caters for adults who are suffering from bipolar disorder as well as schizophrenia. We are dependent on donations and assistance from the public and corporate sectors to keep the home open and functional. All proceeds from the cycle challenge will be used to sustain the home,” she explained.

The event boasts two distances – 50 km and 15km (for the not-so-fit). The entry fee is R150 per cyclist, if done through www.cycleevents.co.za. Late entries will cost R180 per cyclist, and can be done at Cycle Lab Fourways, on 18 May between 9.30am and 2.30pm, or on the day of the race from 5.30am.

“We start and finish at the Valverde Country Hotel. The 50km cycle will start at 7am and the 15km event at 7.20am. We have arranged fun events for the children while the adults are riding, and refreshments and secure parking will be available. The event is supported by the local traffic authorities, who will be out on the road to assist our marshals,” Ashley said.

In order for them to ensure the event is a successful one, they need participants. “We are looking for people to participate in the event, be they serious riders out for a morning’s training, a work group coming out for the fresh air or a family group riding together. All are welcome; however, because this is a fun cycle event and not a race, no timing will be done,” she said.

For more information on the race, contact Ashley on 011 955 6595 between 9am and 3pm. Alternatively, contact her on 071 414 0501.